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Word of the Day

Learn a new word every day! The Dictionary.com team of language experts carefully selects each Word of the Day to add some panache to your vocabulary.


fjord

[fyawrd]

noun

a narrow sea inlet

Explanation

A fjord is a narrow sea inlet that's often surrounded by cliffs or mountains — quite a beautiful sight! The word is from Norwegian and is perfect for adventurers, both linguistic and seafaring.

recreant

[rek-ree-uhnt]

adjective

cowardly or craven

Explanation

If bravery isn't someone's strong suit, they might be called recreant — a term for being cowardly or craven. The word is borrowed from French and originally meant "defeated." Let's stand tall and not be recreant in the face of new vocabulary!

humbug

[huhm-buhg]

verb

to delude, deceive, or fool

Explanation

Humbug is a fun little word to describe tricking or deceiving. With murky origins and a history dating back to the 18th century, this mysterious little word has been able to humbug people for years!

elucubrate

[ih-loo-kyoo-breyt]

verb

to produce (something) by long and intensive effort

Explanation

To elucubrate is to produce something by an intensive effort, often burning the midnight oil. This Latin-rooted word proves that deep thinking and late nights have always gone hand in hand. Got coffee?

visage

[viz-ij]

noun

the appearance or expression conveyed by someone's face

Explanation

A visage is the appearance or expression of someone's face. Poets have swooned over fair visages for centuries, while poker players keep theirs unreadable. Whatever look you're going for, your visage says it all!